Electronic contactor

Abstract

The invention discloses an electronic contactor. An electronic contactor according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: a housing having a housing space formed therein; an energizing part that is connected to an external power source or load so as to be energized and that is coupled to the housing such that at least a portion of the energizing part is exposed outside the housing; and a temperature sensing device coupled to the housing such that at least a portion of the temperature sensing device is exposed outside the housing, the temperature sensing device being disposed adjacent to and spaced from the energizing portion and sensing heat generated by the energizing portion, the temperature sensing device including: a support member coupled to the housing and housed in the housing space; a temperature sensing member coupled to the support member and sensing the heat; and a temperature sensing terminal coupled to the support member and electrically connected to the temperature sensing member, at least a portion of the temperature sensing terminal being exposed outside the housing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an electronic contactor, and more specifically, to an electronic contactor capable of accurately sensing the temperature of an energized part without affecting its energization status with the outside. Background Technology

[0002] A DC relay is a device that uses the principle of electromagnetism to transmit mechanical drive or current signals. DC relays are also known as magnetic switches and are generally classified as circuit switching devices.

[0003] A DC relay consists of fixed contacts and moving contacts. The fixed contacts are energized and can be connected to an external power source and load. The fixed contacts and moving contacts can be in contact with each other or separated from each other.

[0004] The contact and separation of the fixed and moving contacts allow or prevent energization through the DC relay. This movement is achieved by a drive unit that applies a driving force to the moving contact.

[0005] The fixed and moving contacts are made of conductive materials. As the fixed and moving contacts come into contact and are energized, the fixed contact generates heat. In the event of overheating, the contact area between the fixed and moving contacts may melt or become damaged, raising concerns about reduced reliability of the connection.

[0006] Therefore, a solution is needed that can sense the heat generated at the fixed contact in real time (accurately the temperature of the fixed contact) and take appropriate measures such as cutting off power when the fixed contact overheats.

[0007] Korean Patent No. 10-2269380 discloses a temperature measuring instrument for an electronic contactor and a temperature monitoring system using the same instrument. Specifically, it discloses a temperature measuring instrument for an electronic contactor that measures the temperature of the supply-side connection terminal and the load-side connection terminal of the electronic contactor using a separate instrument, and uses the measured values ​​to determine whether an abnormal temperature has occurred.

[0008] However, the temperature measuring instruments for electronic contactors disclosed in the existing literature are based on the premise of being set up separately from the electronic contactor. That is, the existing literature cannot provide a solution for directly configuring the device for sensing the contact temperature into the electronic contactor.

[0009] Japanese Patent Document No. 6005490 discloses a method for evaluating the temperature of an electronic contactor and a contactor implementing the method. Specifically, it discloses a method for predicting the temperature of a magnetic core using a measured current value, the method having a means for measuring the current applied to the operating magnetic core of the contactor without the need for additional sensors.

[0010] However, the temperature evaluation methods for electronic contactors disclosed in the existing literature, and the contactors using these methods, do not provide a solution for directly measuring contact temperature. Furthermore, the temperature evaluation methods disclosed in the existing literature predict temperature by using the current value applied to the magnetic core. Therefore, if the measured current value is affected by various factors, there is a concern that the accuracy of the measured temperature may decrease.

[0011] Furthermore, the existing literature does not provide a solution for accurately sensing contact temperature without affecting the performance of the electronic contactor.

[0012] Korean Patent No. 10-2269380 (June 21, 2021) Japanese Patent Document No. 6005490 (September 16, 2016) Summary of the Invention The problem the invention aims to solve This invention is proposed to solve the above-mentioned problems. The purpose of this invention is to provide an electronic contactor with a structure that can accurately measure the contact temperature.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide an electronic contactor whose configuration for measuring temperature does not affect the energized state.

[0014] Another object of the present invention is to provide an electronic contactor with a structure in which the temperature of the contact points can be measured using various methods.

[0015] Another object of the present invention is to provide an electronic contactor configured to be non-exposed to the outside for the purpose of measuring temperature.

[0016] Another object of the present invention is to provide an electronic contactor configured to easily achieve electrical connection for measuring temperature.

[0017] Another object of the present invention is to provide an electronic contactor with a structure that can measure the temperature of the contact points without requiring excessive structural changes.

[0018] The technical problems of this invention are not limited to those mentioned above. Those skilled in the art can clearly understand other technical problems not mentioned through the following description.

[0019] means for solving problems According to one aspect of the present invention, an electronic contactor is provided, comprising: a housing having a housing space formed therein; an energized portion energized to be connected to an external power source or load, and coupled to the housing such that at least a portion of the energized portion is exposed outside the housing; and a temperature sensing device coupled to the housing such that at least a portion of the temperature sensing device is exposed outside the housing, the temperature sensing device being disposed adjacent to and spaced apart from the energized portion, and sensing heat generated by the energized portion, the temperature sensing device comprising: a support member coupled to the housing and housed within the housing space; a temperature sensing member coupled to the support member and sensing the heat; and a temperature sensing terminal coupled to the support member and energized to be connected to the temperature sensing member, at least a portion of the temperature sensing terminal being exposed outside the housing.

[0020] At this time, an electronic contactor can be provided, the housing of the electronic contactor comprising: a supporting step portion supporting the supporting member on one side in the height direction; a molding space surrounded by the supporting step portion, the temperature sensing member being located in the molding space; and a communicating opening portion recessed in a part of the supporting step portion and extending between the molding space and the energized portion to form a channel for heat transfer.

[0021] Alternatively, an electronic contactor may be provided in which the communication opening is formed such that the cross-sectional area of ​​the communication opening decreases in the direction from the energized portion toward the temperature sensing member.

[0022] At this time, an electronic contactor can be provided, wherein the housing of the electronic contactor includes: a support member receiving space, recessed in the inner surface of the housing, located on one side of the support step portion in the height direction, for receiving the support member.

[0023] Alternatively, an electronic contactor may be provided in which the supporting step portion is configured to surround and extend from the outer side of the supporting member in the horizontal direction, and to support the portion of the supporting member adjacent to the outer periphery of the supporting member.

[0024] Alternatively, an electronic contactor may be provided, wherein the housing of the electronic contactor includes a support protrusion formed on the inner surface of the housing surrounding the receiving space of the support member, and supports the support member on the outer side in a horizontal direction.

[0025] At this time, an electronic contactor can be provided, wherein the electronic contactor has a plurality of support protrusions, and the plurality of support protrusions are spaced apart from each other along the one direction and in another direction perpendicular to the one direction to support the support member at a plurality of positions.

[0026] At this time, an electronic contactor can be provided, wherein the housing of the electronic contactor includes: a shaped post located in the receiving space of the support member and extending in the direction opposite to the inner surface of the housing, undergoing a phase change due to heat or pressure, the support member including: a support through hole formed through the interior of the support member, the shaped post passing through the support through hole.

[0027] Alternatively, an electronic contactor may be provided in which a forming central hole is formed in the interior of the forming column for inserting a welding tip to apply the heat or pressure.

[0028] At this time, an electronic contactor can be provided, wherein the temperature sensing device of the electronic contactor is located on one side biased towards the length direction of the housing, the housing including: a terminal receiving groove recessed in the inner surface of the side to receive the temperature sensing terminal; and a pair of terminal supports configured to protrude from the inner surface of the side, extend along the height direction of the housing, and face each other across the terminal receiving groove along the width direction of the housing to support the temperature sensing terminal.

[0029] Alternatively, an electronic contactor may be provided, wherein the support member of the electronic contactor includes: a terminal through-hole formed through the interior of the support member; and a circuit pattern extending between the temperature sensing member and the terminal through-hole, wherein the temperature sensing terminal is inserted into the terminal through-hole to be electrically connected to the circuit pattern.

[0030] At this time, an electronic contactor can be provided, wherein the temperature sensing terminal of the electronic contactor includes: a terminal body, which is coupled to the housing and extends in the height direction of the housing; a terminal head, which is continuous with one end of the terminal body in the height direction and extends in the length direction of the housing to support the support member; and a support member coupling portion, which is continuous with the terminal head and extends in the height direction of the housing to be inserted into the terminal through hole.

[0031] Alternatively, an electronic contactor may be provided, wherein the temperature sensing terminal of the electronic contactor includes: a terminal tail portion that is continuous with the other end of the terminal body in the height direction and extends in the length direction of the housing, and at least a portion of the terminal tail portion is exposed outside the housing.

[0032] At this time, an electronic contactor can be provided, wherein the energized part of the electronic contactor includes an energized terminal, at least a portion of which is exposed on one side outside the housing to be energized for connection to the outside.

[0033] Alternatively, an electronic contactor may be provided, wherein the temperature sensing terminal of the electronic contactor includes a terminal tail extending in the length direction of the housing, and at least a portion of the terminal tail is exposed on the side outside the housing.

[0034] Invention Effects With the above configuration, the electronic contactor according to an embodiment of the present invention can accurately measure the temperature of the contact points.

[0035] Furthermore, with the above configuration, in the electronic contactor according to an embodiment of the present invention, the configuration provided for measuring temperature does not affect the energized state.

[0036] Furthermore, with the above configuration, the electronic contactor according to embodiments of the present invention can be used to measure the temperature of the contact points using various methods.

[0037] Furthermore, with the above configuration, in the electronic contactor according to an embodiment of the present invention, the components provided for measuring temperature are not exposed to the outside.

[0038] Furthermore, with the above configuration, the electrical connection can be easily achieved in the electronic contactor according to an embodiment of the present invention, provided for measuring temperature.

[0039] Furthermore, with the above configuration, the electronic contactor according to the embodiment of the present invention can measure the temperature of the contact points without requiring excessive structural changes.

[0040] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those described above, but should be understood to include all effects that can be derived from the invention as described in the detailed description of the invention or the appended claims. Attached Figure Description

[0041] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing an electronic contactor according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 Side view of an electronic contactor.

[0043] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 1 An exploded three-dimensional diagram of the electronic contactor.

[0044] Figure 4 It shows the setting in Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the housing of an electronic contactor.

[0045] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 4 Top view of the shell.

[0046] Figure 6 It is shown Figure 4 Side view of the casing.

[0047] Figure 7 It is shown Figure 4 A bottom view of the shell.

[0048] Figure 8 It is shown Figure 4 An enlarged view of part A of the shell.

[0049] Figure 9 It is shown Figure 4 DD-line sectional view of the housing.

[0050] Figure 10 It shows the setting in Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the frame and energized part of the electronic contactor.

[0051] Figure 11 It shows the setting in Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the arc guide of an electronic contactor.

[0052] Figure 12 It shows the setting in Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of the temperature sensing device of the electronic contactor.

[0053] Figure 13 It is shown Figure 12 A top view of the temperature sensing device.

[0054] Figure 14 It is shown Figure 12 An exploded perspective view of the temperature sensing device.

[0055] Figure 15 It is shown Figure 12 Temperature sensing device and Figure 4 A side view of the shell in its assembled state.

[0056] Figure 16 It is shown Figure 15 A CC-line sectional view of the state.

[0057] Figure 17 It is shown Figure 15 A sectional view of the state along line AA.

[0058] Figure 18 It is shown Figure 1 A BB-line cross-sectional view of an electronic contactor.

[0059] Figure 19 It is shown Figure 1 A sectional view of the electronic contactor along line AA. Detailed Implementation

[0060] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings to enable those skilled in the art to readily implement them. The present invention can be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. For clarity of illustration, parts unrelated to the description have been omitted from the drawings, and the same reference numerals are used throughout the specification for the same or similar constituent elements.

[0061] The words and terms used in this specification and the appended claims should not be construed as limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but rather, in order to best describe the invention, they should be interpreted in a way that is consistent with the technical concept of the invention, in accordance with the principle that the inventor is able to define terms and concepts.

[0062] Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the structures shown in the accompanying drawings correspond to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, and do not represent all the technical ideas of the present invention. Thus, various equivalents and modifications that can replace the corresponding structures can be derived from the perspective of the present invention.

[0063] In the following description, some of the constituent elements may be omitted in order to make the features of the invention clear.

[0064] The term "connection" as used in the following description means that one or more components can be fluidly connected to each other. In one embodiment, a connection can be formed by components such as conduits, pipes, and tubes. In the following description, a connection may be used in the same sense as one or more components being "fluidly connected" to each other.

[0065] As used in the following description, the term "energized" refers to the connection between one or more components that enables the transmission of current or electrical signals. In one embodiment, energization can be achieved in a wired manner using conductors or the like, or wirelessly using methods such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or RFID (Radio Frequency Identification). In one embodiment, energization can also include the meaning of "communication."

[0066] As used in the following description, the term "fluid" refers to a substance that flows under external force and whose shape or volume can change. In one embodiment, the fluid may be a liquid such as water or a gas such as air.

[0067] The terms “upper side”, “lower side”, “left side”, “right side”, “front side”, and “rear side” used in the following description should be understood with reference to the coordinate system shown in the overall attached figure.

[0068] Reference Figures 1 to 3 An electronic contactor 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The electronic contactor 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention can be energizedly connected to an external power source (not shown) and a load (not shown), respectively. The electronic contactor 10 can allow or block the electrical connection of the external power source (not shown) and the load (not shown). For this purpose, the electronic contactor 10 includes an energizing section 300, which will be described later.

[0069] The electronic contactor 10 is energized and connected to an external control unit (not shown). The electronic contactor 10 operates by a control current applied by the external control unit (not shown), and can allow or block electrical connections to external power sources (not shown) and loads (not shown). For this purpose, the electronic contactor 10 may include a fixed magnetic core (not given reference numerals) and a movable magnetic core (not shown) disposed on the frame 200, which will be described later.

[0070] The process of applying a control current to the electronic contactor 10 to establish or interrupt the energization state between an external power source (not shown) and a load (not shown) is a well-known technique, and therefore a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0071] Furthermore, the electronic contactor 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention can directly measure the temperature of the energized section 300 (configured to be energized and connected to an external power source (not shown) or load (not shown)). That is, the electronic contactor 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is configured to directly sense the heat generated by the energized section 300 and measure the temperature, rather than predicting the temperature using other parameters such as the applied current value. Therefore, the temperature of the energized section 300 can be accurately measured.

[0072] Meanwhile, in the electronic contactor 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention, a configuration provided for measuring the temperature of the energized section 300 (i.e., the temperature sensing device 500, which will be described later) can be located adjacent to the energized section 300. Therefore, the temperature of the energized section 300 can be sensed in real time.

[0073] Furthermore, in the electronic contactor 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the configuration (i.e., the temperature sensing device 500, which will be described later) is housed internally, which minimizes structural changes to the configuration housing the configuration (i.e., the housing 100, which will be described later).

[0074] exist Figures 1 to 3 In the embodiment shown, the electronic contactor 10 includes a housing 100, a frame 200, an energized part 300, an arc guiding part 400, and a temperature sensing device 500.

[0075] The housing 100 forms part of the external shape of the electronic contactor 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 100 forms one side (i.e., the upper side) of the electronic contactor 10 in the height direction. The housing 100 is the portion of the electronic contactor 10 that is exposed to the outside.

[0076] The housing 100 has an interior space. Part of the electronic contactor 10 can be accommodated in the space. As described later, the housing 100 accommodates the energizing part 300, the arc guiding part 400, and the temperature sensing device 500.

[0077] The housing 100 may be made of insulating material. This is to prevent the structure housed in the space from being arbitrarily energized by the outside. Additionally, the housing 100 is the exposed portion of the electronic contactor 10, used to prevent safety accidents such as electric shock.

[0078] The housing 100 is combined with the frame 200. In one embodiment, the housing 100 may be detachably combined with the frame 200. The space formed inside the housing 100 is in communication with the space formed inside the frame 200.

[0079] The housing 100 houses the energized part 300 and the arc guiding part 400. At this time, a portion of the energized part 300 is exposed on the outside of the housing 100 so as to be energizedly connected to an external power source (not shown) and a load (not shown), respectively.

[0080] The housing 100 houses the temperature sensing device 500. Additionally, the housing 100 supports the temperature sensing device 500.

[0081] The housing 100 and the frame 200 are combined and can be any shape capable of accommodating the energized part 300, the arc guiding part 400 and the temperature sensing device 500.

[0082] exist Figures 4 to 9 In the embodiment shown, the housing 100 includes a housing body 110, a power receiving part 120, a temperature sensing housing part 130, a housing space 140, and a terminal cover 150.

[0083] The shell body 110 forms the outer shape of the shell 100. The shell body 110 is the portion of the shell 100 that is exposed to the outside. Other components of the shell 100 are formed or incorporated into the shell body 110.

[0084] Specifically, the power receiving part 120 and the temperature sensing receiving part 130 are formed on one side (the upper side in the illustrated embodiment) of the housing body 110 in the height direction. A portion of the temperature sensing receiving part 130 is formed inside the housing body 110. The housing body 110 surrounds the housing space 140. One side of the housing body 110 in the length direction (the right side in the illustrated embodiment) is joined to the terminal cover 150.

[0085] The housing body 110 constitutes the outer shape of the housing 100 and can be any shape that can be formed or combined with other components of the housing 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing body 110 is a three-dimensional shape with a length in the left-right direction longer than its width in the front-back direction and a height in the vertical direction.

[0086] The receiving part 120 is combined with the energizing part 300. The receiving part 120 accommodates and supports the energizing part 300. The energizing part 300 can be accommodated in the receiving part 120 such that at least a portion of it is exposed outside the housing body 110.

[0087] A power receiving part 120 is formed on the housing body 110. The power receiving part 120 is formed on one side (the upper side in the illustrated embodiment) of the housing body 110 in the height direction.

[0088] Multiple power receiving sections 120 can be formed. Multiple power receiving sections 120 can be combined with multiple power transmitting sections 300 respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of power receiving sections 120 can be provided, including a first power receiving section 120a located on one side (i.e., the left side) in the length direction and a second power receiving section 120b located on the other side (i.e., the right side) in the length direction.

[0089] At this time, the receiving part 120 may be formed such that at least a portion of it protrudes from the upper side of the housing body 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the receiving part 120 is formed in a boss-like shape. Therefore, the portion of the receiving part 120 exposed to the outside protrudes more than the other portions of the housing body 110, thereby making it easy to identify the position of the energized part 300 coupled with the receiving part 120.

[0090] In the illustrated embodiment, the power receiving part 120 includes a power-conducting through hole 121 and an insulating partition wall 122.

[0091] The power-conducting through-hole 121 is the part where the power-receiving part 120 and the power-conducting part 300 are combined. The power-conducting through-hole 121 is formed through one side (the upper side in the illustrated embodiment) of the housing body 110 in the height direction. The power-conducting through-hole 121 connects the housing space 140 with the outside.

[0092] The energized part 300 is connected through the energized through hole 121. At this time, the energized part 300 can be connected through the energized through hole 121 with at least a portion of it exposed on the outside of the housing body 110.

[0093] The through-hole 121 can be any shape through which the energized part 300 can pass. In the illustrated embodiment, the through-hole 121 is formed as a disk-shaped space with a circular cross-section and a thickness in the vertical direction. Each end of the through-hole 121 in the thickness direction (the upper end and the lower end in the illustrated embodiment) is formed to be open.

[0094] Multiple through holes 121 can be provided. These through holes 121 can be spaced apart from each other and each connected to a plurality of energized parts 300. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of through holes 121 are provided, including a first through hole 121a and a second through hole 121b. The first through hole 121a and the second through hole 121b are spaced apart along the length direction (i.e., the left-right direction) of the housing body 110.

[0095] The first power-conducting through-hole 121a and the second power-conducting through-hole 121b are arranged facing each other across an insulating partition wall 122. Therefore, the first power-conducting part 300a connected to the first power-conducting through-hole 121a and the second power-conducting part 300b connected to the second power-conducting through-hole 121b can be electrically isolated.

[0096] The insulating partition 122 electrically isolates the first energized part 300a from the second energized part 300b. The insulating partition 122 is located between the first and second energized through holes 121a and 121b along the length direction of the housing body 110 (the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment).

[0097] The insulating partition wall 122 is attached to the housing body 110. The insulating partition wall 122 is located on one side of the housing body 110 in the height direction (the upper side in the illustrated embodiment).

[0098] The insulating partition 122 is located between the first and second energized portions 300a and 300b, and can be of any shape capable of electrically isolating them. In the illustrated embodiment, the insulating partition 122 can be formed as a plate having a length in the front-to-back direction, a height in the vertical direction, and a thickness in the left-to-right direction.

[0099] The temperature sensing housing 130 houses the temperature sensing device 500. Additionally, the temperature sensing housing 130 supports the temperature sensing device 500. Parts of the temperature sensing housing 130 are formed on the exterior and interior of the housing body 110.

[0100] The temperature sensing receiving portion 130 can be located adjacent to any one of the plurality of power-conducting through holes 121a, 121b. In the illustrated embodiment, the temperature sensing receiving portion 130 is disposed adjacent to the second power-conducting through hole 121b located on the right side and the second power-conducting portion 300b connected thereto.

[0101] The temperature sensing housing 130 is located in the housing space 140. If the temperature sensing device 500 housed in the temperature sensing housing 130 removes a portion of the temperature sensing terminal 530 that can be electrically connected to the outside (i.e., the terminal tail 533, which will be described later), it will not be exposed outside the housing body 110.

[0102] In the illustrated embodiment, a single temperature sensing receiver 130 may be provided. Alternatively, a pair of temperature sensing receivers 130 may be provided corresponding to the number of energized portions 300, and disposed adjacent to the first and second energized through holes 121a and 121b, respectively.

[0103] In the illustrated embodiment, the temperature sensing receiving portion 130 includes a temperature sensing protrusion 131, a support step portion 132, a support member receiving space 133, a molding space 134, a communicating opening portion 135, a molding post 136, a support protrusion 137, a terminal support portion 138, and a terminal receiving groove 139.

[0104] A temperature sensing protrusion 131 is formed on the outer side of the housing body 110. The temperature sensing protrusion 131 is located on one side of the housing body 110 in the height direction (the upper side in the illustrated embodiment). Similar to the power receiving part 120, the temperature sensing protrusion 131 is formed in a boss shape. The temperature sensing protrusion 131 is continuous with the second power receiving part 120b.

[0105] Therefore, the portion where the temperature sensing device 500 is located protrudes from the other portions of the housing body 110, making it easy to identify the position of the temperature sensing device 500 attached thereto.

[0106] The support step portion 132 supports the support member 510 disposed on the temperature sensing device 500. The support step portion 132 can support the support member 510 in the height direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the support step portion 132 can support the support member 510 in the direction toward the temperature sensing protrusion 131 (on the upper side in the illustrated embodiment).

[0107] A support step 132 is formed on the inner surface of the housing body 110. The support step 132 faces the temperature sensing protrusion 131 across one side of the housing body 110 in the height direction (the upper side in the illustrated embodiment). The support step 132 protrudes from the upper inner surface of the housing body 110.

[0108] The space located below the support step portion 132 is defined as the support member receiving space 133. The support member 510 is received in the support member receiving space 133, and one side of its height direction (the upper direction in the illustrated embodiment) can be supported by the support step portion 132.

[0109] The supporting step portion 132 can surround and extend the molding space 134. In this case, the supporting step portion 132 can partially surround and extend the molding space 134. For example... Figure 8 As clearly shown, the supporting step portion 132 completely surrounds the formed space 134 in the width direction (i.e., the front side and the rear side) of the shell body 110.

[0110] One side (left side in the illustrated embodiment) of the supporting step portion 132 along its length direction partially surrounds a portion of the forming space 134. The left side portion of the supporting step portion 132 is recessed to form a communicating opening 135. Therefore, the left side portion of the supporting step portion 132 can be divided into a portion located on the front side and another portion located on the rear side. The first and second portions are separated in the front-rear direction, with the communicating opening 135 located between them.

[0111] The other sides of the supporting step portion 132 along its length (the right side portion in the illustrated embodiment) may be located adjacent to the terminal support portion 138. In one embodiment, the ends of the other sides of the supporting step portion 132 along its length may be continuous with the terminal support portion 138.

[0112] Therefore, the forming space 134 can be connected to the second power-conducting through hole 121b through the connecting opening 135.

[0113] The support step portion 132 can be formed in accordance with the cross-sectional shape of the support member 510. In the illustrated embodiment, the support step portion 132 is generally open on the right side with a rectangular outer perimeter, and a connecting opening 135 is formed on its left side.

[0114] In the illustrated embodiment, a support protrusion 132a is provided adjacent to the support step portion 132.

[0115] The support protrusion 132a supports the support member 510 disposed on the support step portion 132. The support protrusion 132a can support the support member 510 in the width direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the support protrusion 132a can support the support member 510 on the front side and the rear side.

[0116] The support protrusion 132a is located adjacent to the support step portion 132. Specifically, the support protrusion 132a surrounds the support member receiving space 133 in the width direction (i.e., the front and rear sides) and protrudes from a surface continuous with the support step portion 132 in the width direction. In this case, the protruding length of the support protrusion 132a can be shorter than the length of the support step portion 132 in the width direction (i.e., the length in the front-rear direction).

[0117] Multiple support protrusions 132a may be provided. The multiple support protrusions 132a may be arranged spaced apart from each other in the width or length direction of the housing 100, so that the support member 510 can be supported at different positions.

[0118] In the illustrated embodiment, a total of two pairs of support protrusions 132a are provided. Any pair of support protrusions 132a is located on one side of the width direction of the housing 100 and is spaced apart in the width direction (i.e., the left-right direction) of the housing 100. The other pair of support protrusions 132a is located on the other side of the width direction of the housing 100 and is spaced apart in the width direction (i.e., the left-right direction) of the housing 100.

[0119] The pair of support protrusions 132a and the other pair of support protrusions 132b are arranged facing each other across the molding space 134 in the width direction (i.e., the front-to-back direction) of the housing 100.

[0120] Therefore, the support member 510 can be guided by the support protrusion 132a, accommodated in the support member accommodating space 133, and installed on the support step portion 132. Thus, the support member 510 can be accurately positioned at a predetermined location.

[0121] Furthermore, after the support member 510 is installed on the support step portion 132, the support member 510 can be supported in the height direction by the support step portion 132, and each side of the support member 510 in the width direction can be supported by the support protrusion 132a. Therefore, any swaying of the support member 510 is prevented, thereby stably maintaining the connection state between the support member 510 and the temperature sensing housing portion 130.

[0122] The space formed on the underside of the supporting step 132 can be defined as the supporting member receiving space 133.

[0123] The support member receiving space 133 accommodates the support member 510. The support member receiving space 133 can be defined as being surrounded by the support step portion 132. In the illustrated embodiment, one side (i.e., the upper side) of the support member receiving space 133 in the height direction is surrounded by the support step portion 132. The other side (the lower side in the illustrated embodiment) of the support member receiving space 133 in the height direction is open to communicate with the housing space 140.

[0124] The support member receiving space 133 can be a shape corresponding to the shape of the support member 510. In the illustrated embodiment, the support member receiving space 133 can be formed as a three-dimensional space with a rectangular cross-section and a height in the vertical direction.

[0125] The support member receiving space 133 is connected to the molding space 134. At this time, the support member 510, which is received in the support member receiving space 133, closes the molding space 134 on one side in the height direction (the lower side in the illustrated embodiment). Therefore, the molding material formed by melting the molding column 136 is contained in the molding space 134 to bond the support member 510 to the housing body 110 and prevent it from flowing to the outside of the molding space 134.

[0126] At this time, the support member receiving space 133 can be formed to have a height corresponding to the height of the support member 510. Therefore, the support member 510 received in the support member receiving space 133 will not protrude into the shell space 140.

[0127] The molding space 134 contains the molding liquid formed by the melting of the molding column 136. The molding liquid contained in the molding space 134 combines the support member 510 with the shell body 110.

[0128] The molding space 134 can be defined as being surrounded by the support step portion 132. In the illustrated embodiment, the front and rear sides of the molding space 134 are surrounded by the support step portion 132. One side of the molding space 134 in the longitudinal direction (the left side in the illustrated embodiment) communicates with the communicating opening 135 formed in the support step portion 132. The other side of the molding space 134 in the longitudinal direction (the right side in the illustrated embodiment) is surrounded by the right inner surface of the housing body 110 and the terminal support portion 138.

[0129] The molding space 134 can be covered by the support member 510. The support member 510 covers the molding space 134 on the lower side and can be accommodated in the support member accommodating space 133. The molding fluid accommodated in the molding space 134 can be combined with the upper inner surface of the shell body 110, the support step portion 132 and the support member 510 respectively.

[0130] Temperature sensing component 520 is housed in molding space 134. As described later, temperature sensing component 520 is located on one side of adjacent communicating opening 135 on each side of molding space 134 (left side in the illustrated embodiment). Temperature sensing component 520 can sense heat transferred through communicating opening 135.

[0131] The molding space 134 can be of any shape capable of accommodating the molding fluid and temperature sensing member 520 used to combine the support member 510 and the housing body 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the molding space 134 can be formed in a three-dimensional space with a rectangular cross-section and a height in the vertical direction.

[0132] The connecting opening 135 connects the housing space 140 and the molding space 134. Heat generated by the energized part 300 housed in the housing space 140 can be transferred to the molding space 134 through the connecting opening 135. The connecting opening 135 forms a pathway for the heat generated by the energized part 300 to be transferred to the temperature sensing member 520. At this time, the heat generated by the energized part 300 can be transferred along the connecting opening 135 in the form of convection or radiation.

[0133] A connecting opening 135 extends between the power-conducting through-hole 121 and the molding space 134. In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting opening 135 extends between the second power-conducting through-hole 121b located on the right side and the molding space 134. The connecting opening 135 communicates with both the power-conducting through-hole 121 and the molding space 134. The connecting opening 135 is recessed into the upper inner surface of the housing body 110 and the support step 132, respectively.

[0134] The connecting opening 135 can be any shape that can form a passage for the heat generated by the energized part 300 to be transferred to the temperature sensing member 520 housed in the molding space 134. In the illustrated embodiment, the length of the width of the connecting opening 135 (i.e., the length in the front-to-back direction) is formed constantly along its extension direction (i.e., the left-to-right direction).

[0135] Alternatively, the cross-sectional area of ​​the connecting opening 135 facing the energized through hole 121 can be formed larger than the cross-sectional area facing the molding space 134. In this embodiment, the cross-sectional area of ​​the connecting opening 135 can decrease along the direction from the second energized through hole 121b to the molding space 134. In this embodiment, the heat generated by the energized part 300 can be concentrated towards the temperature sensing member 520 housed in the molding space 134.

[0136] The molding column 136 can form a molding fluid that binds the support member 510 and the shell body 110. The molding column 136 can be heated or pressurized through an external welding tip, causing it to change phase to a fluid state and flow into the molding space 134. After filling the molding space 134, the molding fluid formed by the phase change of the molding column 136 changes phase back to a solid state and binds to the support member 510 and the shell body 110.

[0137] The molded column 136 can be made of any material capable of undergoing a phase change due to heat and a re-phase change upon cooling. In one embodiment, the molded column 136 can be made of resin.

[0138] The molding column 136 is located in the molding space 134. The molding column 136 is surrounded by the support step portion 132 and can be located at a position spaced apart from the support step portion 132. The molding column 136 can extend from the surface surrounding the molding space 134 on the upper side (i.e., the upper inner surface of the housing body 110) to the lower side.

[0139] The forming column 136 is continuous with the support protrusion 137. In the illustrated embodiment, the front, rear, and left sides of the outer periphery of the forming column 136 are continuous with the support protrusion 137.

[0140] Furthermore, before the molding column 136 undergoes phase transformation, the molding column 136 can be combined with the support member 510. The molding column 136 passes through the support through hole 511, and after the support member 510 is maintained in a preset position, it can be heated or pressurized by an external welding nozzle or the like.

[0141] The forming column 136 can be of any shape capable of being combined with the support member 510 and heated or pressurized by an external welding nozzle or the like to undergo a phase change. In the illustrated embodiment, the forming column 136 may have an annular cross-section with a forming central hole 136a formed therein and a height in the vertical direction. An external welding nozzle may be inserted into the forming central hole 136a to apply heat or pressure to the forming column 136.

[0142] The forming hole 136a can be of any shape capable of accommodating an external welding nozzle. In the illustrated embodiment, the forming hole 136a is formed as a cylindrical space with a circular cross-section and height in the vertical direction.

[0143] It should be understood that when the temperature sensing device 500 is combined with the housing 100, the aforementioned molding column 136 will disappear. That is, the molding column 136 will become the molding liquid contained in the molding space 134.

[0144] The support protrusion 137 supports the support member 510 housed in the support member receiving space 133. The support protrusion 137 can protrude from the surface that surrounds the molding space 134 on the upper side (i.e., the upper inner surface of the housing body 110). The support protrusion 137 is continuous with the outer periphery of the molding column 136.

[0145] The support protrusion 137 can support the support member 510 before the molding column 136 undergoes a phase change. That is, the outer part of the support member 510, which is housed in the support member receiving space 133, is supported by the support step 132, and the inner part of the support member 510 is supported by the support protrusion 137.

[0146] Therefore, the support member 510 combined with the forming column 136 can be accommodated in the support member accommodating space 133 in a horizontal state.

[0147] Multiple support protrusions 137 may be provided. The multiple support protrusions 137 may be continuous with different portions of the forming post 136. In the illustrated embodiment, three support protrusions 137 are provided, which are continuous with the front side, rear side, and left side of the forming post 136, respectively.

[0148] In one embodiment, the support protrusion 137 is made of the same material as the forming post 136 and can undergo a phase change due to heat or pressure applied by an external welding nozzle. In this embodiment, the phase-changed support protrusion 137 can still be integrated with the upper inner surface of the housing body 110 and the support member 510.

[0149] The terminal support 138 supports the temperature sensing terminal 530 disposed on the temperature sensing device 500. Because of the terminal support 138, the temperature sensing terminal 530 can remain in a coupled state with the housing 100 without shaking.

[0150] Terminal support portion 138 is formed on housing body 110. Specifically, terminal support portion 138 is formed on one side of housing body 110 in the longitudinal direction (right inner surface in the illustrated embodiment). Terminal support portion 138 and communicating opening portion 135 are arranged facing each other across molding space 134.

[0151] Terminal support portion 138 is located in molding space 134. Terminal support portion 138, together with support step portion 132, can surround molding space 134. In the illustrated embodiment, terminal support portion 138 surrounds molding space 134 on the right side.

[0152] Terminal support portion 138 may protrude inwardly from the inner right side surface of housing body 110. Terminal support portion 138 extends in the height direction (vertical direction in the illustrated embodiment) of housing body 110. Multiple terminal support portions 138 may be formed. Multiple terminal support portions 138 are spaced apart from each other to support multiple temperature sensing terminals 530 at different locations. In the illustrated embodiment, two terminal support portions 138 are provided, spaced apart in the longitudinal direction. The number and arrangement of terminal support portions 138 can be changed according to the number and arrangement of temperature sensing terminals 530.

[0153] Each pair of terminal supports 138 can be composed of a pair of parts. The parts can be spaced apart in the width direction (front-rear direction in the illustrated embodiment) of the housing body 110. The space formed by the separation of the parts is defined as the terminal receiving groove 139.

[0154] The terminal receiving groove 139 accommodates the temperature sensing terminal 530. The temperature sensing terminal 530 is accommodated in the terminal receiving groove 139 and can be supported by the terminal support part 138 and the housing body 110.

[0155] A terminal receiving groove 139 is located between a pair of portions constituting the terminal support portion 138. The terminal receiving groove 139 is defined by the pair of spaced-apart portions constituting the terminal support portion 138. A portion of the terminal receiving groove 139 may be recessed into the inner right side surface of the housing body 110. The terminal receiving groove 139 communicates with the housing space 140.

[0156] The terminal receiving groove 139 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the terminal support portion 138 or the temperature sensing terminal 530. In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal receiving groove 139 has a rectangular cross-section and extends in the vertical direction.

[0157] The housing space 140 is a space formed inside the housing body 110. The housing space 140 is defined as being surrounded by each side of the housing body 110. One side of the housing space 140 in the height direction (the lower side in the illustrated embodiment) is open and communicates with the space of the frame 200.

[0158] The housing space 140 accommodates other components of the electronic contactor 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing space 140 accommodates the energized part 300, the arc guiding part 400, and the temperature sensing device 500.

[0159] The housing space 140 is in communication with the outside. At least a portion of the energized part 300 of the through-hole 121 can be exposed in the arc chamber 230 contained in the housing space 140.

[0160] The housing space 140 may have a shape corresponding to that of the housing body 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing space 140 is formed such that its length in the left-right direction is longer than its width in the front-back direction and it has a height in the vertical direction.

[0161] Terminal cover 150 covers the power-conducting terminal 340 and temperature-sensing terminal 530 exposed to the outside of housing 100. Terminal cover 150 at least surrounds a portion of the portion of the power-conducting terminal 340 and temperature-sensing terminal 530 exposed to the outside of housing 100. An external connector (not shown) can be easily coupled to the power-conducting terminal 340 and temperature-sensing terminal 530 by means of terminal cover 150.

[0162] Terminal cover 150 is attached to housing body 110. Terminal cover 150 is continuous along one side of housing body 110 in the longitudinal direction (right side in the illustrated embodiment). Terminal cover 150 is configured to cover the energized terminal 340 and temperature sensing terminal 530 from above.

[0163] The frame 200, together with the housing 100, forms the outer shape of the electronic contactor 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame 200 forms the other side (i.e., the lower side) of the electronic contactor 10 in the height direction. The frame 200 is the portion of the electronic contactor 10 that is exposed to the outside.

[0164] The frame 200 has an interior space. Other components of the electronic contactor 10 can be accommodated in said space. For example, the frame 200 can accommodate a fixed magnetic core, a movable magnetic core, a spool, a shaft, a coil, etc. (not shown in the drawings).

[0165] The frame 200 may be made of insulating material. This is to prevent the structure housed in the space from being arbitrarily energized by the outside. Additionally, the frame 200 is the exposed portion of the electronic contactor 10, used to prevent safety accidents such as electric shock.

[0166] The frame 200 is coupled to the housing 100. In one embodiment, the frame 200 may be detachably coupled to the housing 100. The space formed inside the frame 200 communicates with the space formed inside the housing 100.

[0167] The frame 200, combined with the housing 100, can be any shape capable of accommodating other configurations of the electronic contactor 10.

[0168] exist Figure 10 In the illustrated embodiment, the frame 200 includes a frame body 210, a terminal protection member 220, and an arc chamber 230. It should be understood that the arc chamber 230 is housed within the housing space 140 and can also be considered a component of the housing 100.

[0169] The frame body 210 constitutes the outer shape of the frame 200. The frame body 210 is the part of the frame 200 that is exposed to the outside. Other components of the frame 200 are formed or incorporated into the frame body 210.

[0170] Specifically, the terminal protection member 220 is formed on one side of the frame body 210 along its length (the right side in the illustrated embodiment). A fixed magnetic core, a movable magnetic core, a spool, a shaft, a coil, etc., can be accommodated in the space formed inside the frame body 210.

[0171] The frame body 210 constitutes the outer shape of the frame 200 and can be any shape to which other components of the frame 200 can be formed or attached. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame body 210 is a three-dimensional shape with a length in the left-right direction longer than its width in the front-back direction and a height in the vertical direction.

[0172] Terminal protection member 220 covers the energized terminal 340 and the temperature sensing terminal 530. At least a portion of the portion of the terminal protection member 220 surrounding the energized terminal 340 and the temperature sensing terminal 530 is exposed outside the housing 100. An external connector (not shown) can be easily coupled to the energized terminal 340 and the temperature sensing terminal 530 by means of the terminal protection member 220.

[0173] Terminal protection member 220 faces terminal cover 150 across the energized terminal 340 and temperature sensing terminal 530. In the illustrated embodiment, terminal protection member 220 surrounds the lower side of energized terminal 340 and temperature sensing terminal 530 and faces terminal cover 150 which surrounds the upper side of energized terminal 340 and temperature sensing terminal 530.

[0174] Terminal protection member 220 is integrated with frame body 210. Terminal protection member 220 is continuous with frame body 210 on one side (right side in the illustrated embodiment) along its length. Terminal protection member 220 surrounds energized terminal 340 and temperature sensing terminal 530 on its underside.

[0175] The position and shape of the terminal cover 150 and the terminal protection member 220 can be changed according to the position and shape of the energized terminal 340 and the temperature sensing terminal 530.

[0176] The arc chamber 230 houses a portion of the energized part 300 and a moving contact (not shown in the drawings). The arc chamber 230 prevents the outflow of any arc generated when the energized part 300 separates from the moving contact (not shown in the drawings). After the generated arc is fully extinguished, it can flow out to the outside of the arc chamber 230.

[0177] The arc chamber 230 is located in the housing space 140. An interior space is formed within the arc chamber 230 to accommodate one (i.e., the lower) side of the energized part 300 along its length and a moving contact (not given a reference numeral). The moving contact (not given a reference numeral) can be vertically and vertically positioned within the arc chamber 230.

[0178] The arc chamber 230 is surrounded by the arc guiding part 400. The arc guiding part 400 can guide the arc generated inside the arc chamber 230 in a preset direction.

[0179] The arc chamber 230 at least accommodates a portion of the energized part 300 and the moving contact (not given a reference numeral), and can be of any shape that can be discharged after the generated arc has been extinguished. In the illustrated embodiment, the arc chamber 230 is a three-dimensional shape with a length in the left-right direction longer than its width in the front-back direction and a height in the vertical direction.

[0180] The energizing unit 300 is configured to enable the electronic contactor 10 to be energized and connected to an external power source (not shown) and a load (not shown). Multiple energizing units 300 may be provided. Any one of the multiple energizing units 300 may be energized and connected to an external power source (not shown). Another of the multiple energizing units 300 may be energized and connected to an external load (not shown).

[0181] exist Figure 10 In the embodiment shown, a pair of energized parts 300, including a first energized part 300a and a second energized part 300b, may be provided.

[0182] The energized part 300 is coupled to the housing 100. The energized part 300 is coupled through the energized through hole 121, and a part of it is exposed to the outside of the housing 100. Another part of the energized part 300 is located inside the arc chamber 230 provided in the housing space 140, so as to contact or separate from the moving contact (not given a reference numeral).

[0183] At this time, the energized part 300 can be fixedly attached to the housing 100. Therefore, it should be understood that the energized part 300 can be defined as a fixed contact.

[0184] exist Figure 10 In the embodiment shown, the energized part 300 includes an energized body 310, an energized outer periphery 320, an energized central hole 330, and an energized terminal 340.

[0185] The energized body 310 forms the shape of the energized section 300. The energized body 310 is connected through the energized through hole 121, and a portion of it protrudes to the outside of the housing 100. At least a portion of the other part of the energized body 310 protrudes into the interior space of the arc chamber 230 so that it can contact or separate from the moving contact (not given reference numerals).

[0186] The energized body 310 may have a shape corresponding to the energized through hole 121. In the illustrated embodiment, the energized body 310 is formed as a cylindrical shape with a circular cross-section and a height in the vertical direction.

[0187] The energized outer periphery 320 is defined as the outer peripheral surface of the energized body 310. In embodiments where the energized body 310 is formed in a cylindrical shape, the energized outer periphery 320 can be defined as the side surface of the energized body 310.

[0188] The heat generated by the contact between the energized part 300 and the moving contact (not given reference numerals) can be dissipated through the energized outer periphery 320. At this time, the heat generated by the energized outer periphery 320 can be transferred to the temperature sensing member 520 through the connecting opening 135 located adjacent to the energized through hole 121.

[0189] As described above, the heat generated by the energized part 300 can be transferred to the temperature sensing member 520 in the form of convection or radiation. Therefore, although not shown, a shape that maximizes the convection effect can be formed on the energized outer periphery 320. For example, a corrugated shape can be formed on the energized outer periphery 320 by intaglio etching.

[0190] The power-conducting central hole 330 is a space formed inside the power-conducting body 310. A cable (not shown) for connecting to an external power source (not shown) and a load (not shown) is inserted into the power-conducting central hole 330. Therefore, the external power source (not shown) and load (not shown) can be energized and connected to the power-conducting body 310.

[0191] A power-conducting central hole 330 extends in the height direction (vertical direction in the illustrated embodiment) of the power-conducting body 310. One side of the extension direction of the power-conducting central hole 330 (upper side in the illustrated embodiment) is open to allow insertion of the cable (not shown). The other side of the extension direction of the power-conducting central hole 330 (lower side in the illustrated embodiment) is closed to limit the insertion length of the cable (not shown).

[0192] The energized terminal 340 can be energizedly connected to an external control unit (not shown). The energized terminal 340 can also be energizedly connected to a coil (not shown) housed inside the frame 200. Therefore, the coil (not shown) generates a magnetic field through the control power applied by the external control unit (not shown), which can magnetize the fixed magnetic core (not shown).

[0193] The energized terminal 340 is attached to the frame 200. The energized terminal 340 is exposed to the outside of the frame 200. In the illustrated embodiment, the energized terminal 340 is exposed to the upper side of one side (right side) of the frame 200 along its length. Therefore, it should be understood that the energized terminal 340 can also be interpreted as a component of the frame 200.

[0194] The energized terminal 340 is located adjacent to the terminal tail 533 of the temperature sensing terminal 530. Therefore, the energized terminal 340 and the temperature sensing terminal 530 can be electrically connected to an external control unit (not shown) via a single connector.

[0195] Multiple energized terminals 340 may be provided. These multiple energized terminals 340 can be energized and connected to an external control unit (not shown) and a coil (not given reference numerals), respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, two energized terminals 340 are provided, each including a first energized terminal 340a and a second energized terminal 340b.

[0196] At this time, the first and second energized terminals 340a and 340b can face each other across a pair of temperature sensing terminals 530a and 530b.

[0197] The arc guiding part 400 guides the electric arc generated in the arc chamber 230 in a preset direction. The arc guiding part 400 is configured to surround the arc chamber 230 and can form a magnetic field inside the arc chamber 230.

[0198] The arc guide 400 is housed in the housing space 140. The arc guide 400 is located between the housing body 110 and the arc chamber 230.

[0199] exist Figure 11 In the embodiment shown, the arc guiding part 400 includes an arc guiding frame 410, a magnet component 420, and an arc guiding space 430.

[0200] The arc guiding frame 410 constitutes the main body of the arc guiding part 400. The arc guiding frame 410 is combined with the magnet component 420 and surrounds the arc guiding space 430.

[0201] The arc guiding frame 410 can be divided into multiple parts. Any one of the multiple parts can be coupled to one side of the magnet member 420 along its length, and another of the multiple parts can be coupled to the other side of the magnet member 420 along its length. In the illustrated embodiment, the arc guiding frame 410 consists of a pair of parts to be coupled to the left and right sides of the magnet member 420, respectively.

[0202] The magnet component 420 generates a magnetic field inside the arc chamber 230. Since the generated arc is a flow of electrons, an electromagnetic force can be generated through the generated magnetic field. Therefore, the generated arc can be guided in a predetermined direction.

[0203] The magnet component 420 is combined with the arc guiding frame 410. The magnet component 420 and the arc guiding frame 410 together surround the arc guiding space 430 and the arc chamber 230 housed inside the arc guiding space 430.

[0204] Multiple magnet components 420 may be provided. The multiple magnet components 420 are spaced apart from each other and can be individually coupled to the arc guiding frame 410. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of magnet components 420 are provided, spaced apart in the front-rear direction. The left and right portions of the pair of magnet components 420 can be coupled to the pair of portions of the arc guiding frame 410, respectively.

[0205] The arc guiding space 430 is the space that houses the arc chamber 230. The arc guiding space 430 is defined as being surrounded by the arc guiding frame 410 and the magnetic component 420. The magnetic field generated by the magnetic component 420 can be located in the arc guiding space 430.

[0206] The arc guiding space 430 can be a shape corresponding to that of the arc chamber 230. In the illustrated embodiment, the arc guiding space 430 is formed by a three-dimensional space with a length in the left-right direction that is longer than its width in the front-back direction and a height in the vertical direction.

[0207] Re-reference Figures 1 to 3 According to an embodiment of the present invention, the electronic contactor 10 includes a temperature sensing device 500.

[0208] The temperature sensing device 500 is configured to sense the heat generated by the electronic contactor 10. Since the component in the electronic contactor 10 that generates the most heat is the energized body 310 (i.e., the fixed contact), the temperature sensing device 500 is configured to be located adjacent to the energized body 310 to sense the heat generated by the energized body 310.

[0209] At this time, the temperature sensing device 500 is configured to be located adjacent to the energized body 310, but not in contact with the energized body 310. Therefore, the heat generated by the energized body 310 is not transferred to the temperature sensing device 500 by conduction. Thus, damage to the temperature sensing device 500 due to heat can be prevented.

[0210] Furthermore, it also prevents performance degradation of the energized body 310 due to contact with other components. That is, since the temperature sensing device 500 is spaced apart from the energized body 310, components such as screws or adhesives for contacting the temperature sensing device 500 with the energized body 310 are no longer needed. As described above, the temperature sensing device 500 is integrated with the housing 100.

[0211] Therefore, while maintaining the performance of the power-on unit 300, the temperature sensing device 500 can be easily configured and integrated.

[0212] Furthermore, the temperature sensing device 500 is housed inside the housing 100. In the configuration of the temperature sensing device 500, only the terminal tail 533, which can be electrically connected to an external control unit (not shown), is exposed outside the housing 100. Therefore, damage to the temperature sensing device 500 caused by the external environment can be prevented, and the heat generated by the energized body 310 can be accurately sensed.

[0213] The temperature sensing device 500 is located in the temperature sensing housing 130. The temperature sensing device 500 can be combined with the housing body 110 by means of the molding liquid formed by the phase change of the molding column 136.

[0214] The temperature sensing device 500 is located adjacent to the energized section 300. In the illustrated embodiment, one temperature sensing device 500 is provided adjacent to the second energized section 300b located on the right side. Alternatively, as described above, multiple temperature sensing devices 500 may be provided, respectively adjacent to the first and second energized sections 300a and 300b.

[0215] exist Figures 12 to 15 In the illustrated embodiment, the temperature sensing device 500 includes a support member 510, a temperature sensing member 520, and a temperature sensing terminal 530.

[0216] The support member 510 supports the temperature sensing member 520 and the temperature sensing terminal 530. Furthermore, the support member 510 is the part that is fixedly connected to the temperature sensing device 500 and the housing 100. The support member 510 is housed in the support member receiving space 133 provided in the temperature sensing receiving portion 130 and is supported by the support step portion 132. The support member 510 covers the molding space 134 on its lower side and can be housed in the support member receiving space 133.

[0217] The support member 510 can be of any shape capable of supporting the temperature sensing member 520 and the temperature sensing terminal 530. In the illustrated embodiment, the support member 510 is formed as a plate with a rectangular cross-section and a thickness in the vertical direction. The shape of the support member 510 can be changed accordingly to the shape of the support step portion 132 or the support member receiving space 133.

[0218] With the support member 510 in place, the temperature sensing member 520, which has a tiny size, can be accurately positioned at a preset location in the molding space 134. That is, if only the temperature sensing member 520 is provided, it is difficult to accurately determine the position of the temperature sensing member 520 during the process of the fluid molding liquid phase changing into a solid phase.

[0219] Therefore, the temperature sensing device 500 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a support member 510 that supports the temperature sensing member 520, thereby allowing the temperature sensing device 500 to be easily and positionally positioned in the housing 100.

[0220] The support member 510 can be configured in any form to support the temperature sensing member 520 and the temperature sensing terminal 530. In one embodiment, the support member 510 can be configured as a PCB board. In the above embodiment, the support member 510 supports the temperature sensing member 520 and the temperature sensing terminal 530 while being electrically connected to them.

[0221] In the illustrated embodiment, the support member 510 includes a support through hole 511, a terminal through hole 512, and a circuit pattern 513.

[0222] A support through hole 511 is formed through the interior of the support member 510. A molded post 136 is formed through and connected to the support through hole 511. As described above, the support member 510 can maintain its position through the molded post 136.

[0223] The support through hole 511 can be a shape corresponding to the shape of the forming column 136. In the illustrated embodiment, the support through hole 511 is formed as a space in the shape of a circular plate with a circular cross-section and a thickness in the vertical direction.

[0224] The support through hole 511 can be formed at a position corresponding to the position of the forming post 136. In the illustrated embodiment, the support through hole 511 is located at a position biased towards the rear side of the support member 510.

[0225] A terminal through hole 512 is formed on the outer side of the support through hole 511.

[0226] A terminal through-hole 512 is formed through the interior of the support member 510. The support member joint 534 of the temperature sensing terminal 530 is connected through the terminal through-hole 512. The support member joint 534 connected to the terminal through-hole 512 can be fixed by a phase-change molding post 136 or additional molding liquid.

[0227] The terminal through hole 512 can be any shape that can be combined with the support member joint 534. In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal through hole 512 is formed as a space in the shape of a circular plate with a circular cross-section and a thickness in the vertical direction.

[0228] Multiple terminal through holes 512 can be provided. Each of the multiple terminal through holes 512 can be engaged with a multiple support member coupling portion 534. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of terminal through holes 512 is provided. One pair of terminal through holes 512 is located on one side of the support member 510 in the width direction (the front side in the illustrated embodiment), and the other pair of terminal through holes 512 is located on the other side in the width direction (the rear side in the illustrated embodiment).

[0229] Each pair of terminal through holes 512 is spaced apart along the length of the support member 510 (in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment). The number and arrangement of the terminal through holes 512 can be changed according to the number and arrangement of the support member joints 534.

[0230] Circuit pattern 513 can electrically connect temperature sensing terminal 530 and temperature sensing component 520, which are coupled to terminal through hole 512. Information sensed by temperature sensing component 520 can be transmitted to an external control unit (not shown) via circuit pattern 513 and temperature sensing terminal 530.

[0231] A circuit pattern 513 is formed on the surface of the support member 510. In the illustrated embodiment, the circuit pattern 513 is formed on a portion of the upper side surface of the support member 510.

[0232] Circuit pattern 513 extends between temperature sensing member 520 and temperature sensing terminal 530. In the illustrated embodiment, circuit pattern 513 extends between a pair of terminal through holes 512 located on the opposite left (i.e., terminal through holes 512 penetrated by support member joint 534) and temperature sensing member 520 located on the left side of support member 510.

[0233] In one embodiment, the circuit pattern 513 may be formed to surround the pair of terminal through holes 512 through which the supported member joint 534 passes. In any case, as long as the circuit pattern 513 can electrically connect the temperature sensing member 520 and the temperature sensing terminal 530.

[0234] The temperature sensing component 520 is configured to sense the heat generated by the energized body 310. Information about the heat or temperature sensed by the temperature sensing component 520 can be transmitted to an external control unit (not shown) via circuit pattern 513 and temperature sensing terminal 530.

[0235] The temperature sensing member 520 is coupled to the support member 510. The temperature sensing member 520 is located on one side (left side in the illustrated embodiment) biased towards the longitudinal direction of the support member 510. It should be understood that this direction is toward the energized body 310 or the connecting opening 135.

[0236] Temperature sensing component 520 can be electrically connected to circuit pattern 513. Temperature sensing component 520 can also be electrically connected to temperature sensing terminal 530 via circuit pattern 513. In addition, the power required for the operation of temperature sensing component 520 can be transmitted to temperature sensing component 520 via temperature sensing terminal 530 and circuit pattern 513.

[0237] The temperature sensing component 520 can be configured in any form to receive and sense the heat generated by the energized body 310 in the form of convection or radiation. In one embodiment, the temperature sensing component 520 can be configured as a temperature sensor, infrared thermometer, etc.

[0238] The temperature sensing terminal 530 can be electrically connected to the temperature sensing component 520 and an external control unit (not shown). The temperature sensing terminal 530 can be electrically connected to the temperature sensing component 520 via circuit pattern 513. In embodiments where the support component 510 is made of ordinary board material instead of PCB board, the temperature sensing terminal 530 can be electrically connected directly to the temperature sensing component 520.

[0239] Temperature sensing terminal 530 is coupled to support member 510. Temperature sensing terminal 530 is coupled to terminal through hole 512 for electrically grounding connection to circuit pattern 513.

[0240] The temperature sensing terminal 530 is coupled to the housing 100. The temperature sensing terminal 530 is accommodated in the terminal receiving groove 139 formed in the housing 100 and is supported by the terminal support portion 138.

[0241] At least a portion of the temperature sensing terminal 530 is exposed outside the housing 100. The portion of the temperature sensing terminal 530 exposed outside the housing 100 is coupled to an external connector for electrically connected to an external control unit (not shown).

[0242] At this time, the temperature sensing terminal 530 can be exposed outside the housing 100 at the same location as the energizing terminal 340. In the illustrated embodiment, the temperature sensing terminal 530 is exposed outside through the right side of the housing 100. Therefore, as described above, both the energizing terminal 340 and the temperature sensing terminal 530 can be simultaneously energized and connected to an external control unit (not shown) using only one connector.

[0243] Multiple temperature sensing terminals 530 may be provided. These multiple temperature sensing terminals 530 may be respectively coupled to the housing 100 and the support member 510. In the illustrated embodiment, two temperature sensing terminals 530, including a first temperature sensing terminal 530a and a second temperature sensing terminal 530b, may be provided. The first and second temperature sensing terminals 530a and 530b may be spaced apart in the width direction (front-back direction in the illustrated embodiment) of the support member 510.

[0244] In the illustrated embodiment, the temperature sensing terminal 530 includes a terminal body 531, a terminal head 532, a terminal tail 533, and a support member joint 534.

[0245] The terminal body 531 constitutes the main body of the temperature sensing terminal 530. The terminal body 531 is the part where the temperature sensing terminal 530 is combined with the housing 100. Specifically, the terminal body 531 is accommodated in the terminal receiving groove 139 and is supported by the terminal support part 138.

[0246] The terminal body 531 can be of any shape that extends between the support member 510 housed in the support member receiving space 133 and the outside of the housing 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal body 531 is configured as a plate having a length in the vertical direction and a thickness in the front-back direction.

[0247] The terminal body 531 and the terminal head 532 are continuous. In the illustrated embodiment, one end (i.e., the upper end) of the terminal body 531 in its extending direction is continuous with the terminal head 532. In this case, the terminal body 531 and the terminal head 532 can form a predetermined angle and be continuous. In one embodiment, the predetermined angle can be a right angle.

[0248] The terminal body 531 is continuous with the terminal tail 533. In the illustrated embodiment, the other end (i.e., the lower end) of the terminal body 531 in its extending direction is continuous with the terminal tail 533. In this case, the terminal body 531 and the terminal tail 533 can form a predetermined angle and be continuous. In one embodiment, the predetermined angle can be a right angle.

[0249] The terminal head 532 can connect the terminal body 531 and the support member joint 534. The terminal head 532 is continuous with both the terminal body 531 and the support member joint 534. The terminal head 532 supports the support member 510 on its lower side.

[0250] The terminal head 532 can be of any shape that is continuous with both the terminal body 531 and the support member joint 534 and can support the support member 510. In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal head 532 is configured as a plate having a length in the left-right direction and a thickness in the front-back direction.

[0251] The terminal head 532 is continuous with the terminal body 531. In the illustrated embodiment, one end (i.e., the right end) of the terminal head 532 in the extending direction is continuous with the terminal body 531.

[0252] The terminal head 532 is continuous with the support member joint 534. In the illustrated embodiment, one side (i.e., the upper side) of the terminal head 532 in the height direction is continuous with the support member joint 534.

[0253] Terminal tail 533 is the part of temperature sensing terminal 530 that can be electrically connected to an external control unit (not shown). At least a portion of terminal tail 533 is exposed outside the housing 100.

[0254] The terminal tail 533 may extend in the same direction as the terminal head 532. In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal tail 533 is configured as a rod extending in the left-right direction.

[0255] Terminal tail 533 is continuous with terminal body 531. In the illustrated embodiment, one end of the terminal tail 533 in the extending direction (i.e., the left end) is continuous with the other end of the terminal body 531 in the extending direction (i.e., the lower end).

[0256] At this time, the terminal tails 533 of the first and second temperature sensing terminals 530a and 530b can be arranged facing each other across a pair of power-on terminals 340.

[0257] The support member joint 534 is the part where the temperature sensing terminal 530 is connected to the support member 510 and is energized by the temperature sensing member 520. The support member joint 534 is connected through the terminal through hole 512 so as to be electrically connected to the circuit pattern 513.

[0258] The support member joint 534 is continuous with the terminal head 532. In the illustrated embodiment, the support member joint 534 is continuous with the upper end of the terminal head 532.

[0259] The support member joint 534 can be any shape that passes through the terminal through hole 512 and can be electrically connected to the circuit pattern 513. In the illustrated embodiment, the support member joint 534 is configured as a plate shape having a length and thickness (i.e., extending in the vertical direction and having a thickness in the front-back direction) in the same direction as the terminal body 531, but its cross-sectional area decreases in the direction toward the support member 510.

[0260] Therefore, the support member joint 534 can easily pass through the terminal through hole 512.

[0261] Multiple support member couplings 534 may be provided. These multiple support member couplings 534 are spaced apart from each other to engage with multiple terminal through holes 512 respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first and second temperature sensing terminals 530a, 530b is provided with a pair of support member couplings 534, spaced apart in the left-right direction.

[0262] The number and configuration of the support member joints 534 can be changed according to the number and configuration of the terminal through holes 512.

[0263] Reference Figures 15 to 19 The diagram illustrates the connection relationship between the housing 100, the energized part 300, and the temperature sensing device 500 of the electronic contactor 10 provided according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0264] As described above, the terminal tail 533 protrudes to the outside through the right side of the housing 100. It should be understood that this direction is the same as the direction in which the energized terminal 340 protrudes to the outside of the housing 100.

[0265] First, the temperature sensing device 500 is configured such that the molding column 136 passes through the support through hole 511, and the support member 510 is installed on the support step portion 132 and the support protrusion 137 and accommodated in the support member accommodating space 133. Therefore, the support member 510 can cover the molding space 134 and be disposed in the housing 100.

[0266] Meanwhile, the temperature sensing device 500 is configured such that the temperature sensing terminal 530 is housed in the terminal receiving groove 139. Therefore, the temperature sensing terminal 530 can be supported by the terminal support portion 138.

[0267] The process can be performed with the housing 100 in an upside-down state (i.e., the housing space 140 is exposed from the top).

[0268] Subsequently, as the external welding nozzle is inserted into the forming hole 136a and heat or pressure is applied, the forming column 136 changes phase to a fluid state and flows into the forming space 134. After a predetermined time, the fluid forming liquid changes phase again to a solid state, which can bond the support member 510 to the upper inner surface of the housing body 110.

[0269] At this time, the temperature sensing member 520 is separated from the energized body 310 and located on the side adjacent to the communication opening 135 (left side in the illustrated embodiment). The heat generated by the energized body 310 disposed in the second energized part 300b is dissipated through the energized outer periphery 320 and transferred to the temperature sensing member 520 through the communication opening 135.

[0270] The temperature sensing component 520 senses information about the heat transmitted and can transmit it to an external control unit (not shown) via circuit pattern 513 and temperature sensing terminal 530.

[0271] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the concept of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed in this specification. Those skilled in the art who understand the concept of the present invention can easily propose other embodiments by adding, modifying, deleting, or adding constituent elements within the same scope of the concept, but this should be within the scope of the concept of the present invention.

[0272] 10: Electronic contactor; 100: Housing; 110: Main body of the casing; 120: Power receiving part; 120a: First power receiving unit; 120b: Second power receiving unit; 121: Through-hole with current; 121a: First through-hole with current; 121b: Second through hole for power transmission; 122: Insulating partition wall; 130: Temperature sensing housing; 131: Temperature sensing protrusion; 132: Supporting step section; 133: Space for accommodating supporting components; 134: Forming space; 135: Connecting opening; 136: Forming column; 136a: Forming center hole; 137: Support protrusion; 138: Terminal support; 139: Terminal receiving slot; 140: Housing space; 150: Terminal cover; 200: Frame; 210: Frame body; 220: Terminal protection component; 230: Arc chamber; 300: Electrically powered section; 300a: First power-on section; 300b: Second power-on section; 310: Powered main body; 320: Powered outer perimeter; 330: Power-conducting center hole; 340: Power-conducting terminal; 340a: First energized terminal; 340b: Second energized terminal; 400: Arc guiding part; 410: Arc guiding frame; 420: Magnet component; 430: Arc guiding space; 500: Temperature sensing device; 510: Supporting component; 511: Support through hole; 512: Terminal through hole; 513: Circuit pattern; 520: Temperature sensing component; 530: Temperature sensing terminal; 530a: First temperature sensing terminal; 530b: Second temperature sensing terminal; 531: Terminal body; 532: Terminal head; 533: Terminal tail; 534: Joint of supporting components.

Claims

1. An electronic contactor, characterized in that, include: The shell has an internal space. The energized part is energized and connected to an external power source or load, and is coupled to the housing such that at least a portion of the energized part is exposed outside the housing. A temperature sensing device is combined with the housing such that at least a portion of the temperature sensing device is exposed outside the housing, the temperature sensing device is disposed adjacent to and spaced apart from the energized part, and senses the heat generated by the energized part; The temperature sensing device includes: The supporting member is integrated with the shell and housed within the shell space. A temperature sensing component, combined with the support component, senses the heat, and A temperature sensing terminal, combined with the support member, is electrically connected to the temperature sensing member, and at least a portion of the temperature sensing terminal is exposed outside the housing.

2. The electronic contactor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing includes: The supporting step section supports the supporting member on one side in the height direction. The molding space is surrounded by the supporting steps, and the temperature sensing component is located within the molding space. The connecting opening is recessed into a portion of the supporting step and extends between the molding space and the energized portion to form a channel for heat transfer.

3. The electronic contactor according to claim 2, characterized in that, The connecting opening is formed such that the cross-sectional area of ​​the connecting opening decreases in the direction from the energized part toward the temperature sensing member.

4. The electronic contactor according to claim 2, characterized in that, The housing includes: The support member receiving space is recessed on the inner surface of the housing, located on one side of the support step portion in the height direction, to receive the support member.

5. The electronic contactor according to claim 4, characterized in that, The support step is configured to surround and extend from the outside of the support member in the horizontal direction, and to support the portion of the support member adjacent to the outer periphery of the support member.

6. The electronic contactor according to claim 4, characterized in that, The housing includes: A support protrusion is formed on the inner surface of the housing surrounding the space for receiving the support member, and supports the support member on the outer side in the horizontal direction.

7. The electronic contactor according to claim 6, characterized in that, The support protrusions are provided in multiple ways, and the multiple support protrusions are spaced apart from each other along one direction and another direction perpendicular to the one direction to support the support member at multiple locations.

8. The electronic contactor according to claim 4, characterized in that, The housing includes: The molded column, located in the receiving space of the support member, extends in the direction opposite to the inner surface of the shell and undergoes a phase change due to heat or pressure; The supporting component includes: A through hole is formed inside the support member, and the molded column passes through the through hole.

9. The electronic contactor according to claim 8, characterized in that, A forming center hole is formed in the recess of the forming column for inserting a welding nozzle to apply the heat or pressure.

10. The electronic contactor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The temperature sensing device is located on one side biased towards the length direction of the housing. The housing includes: A terminal receiving groove, recessed in the inner surface of one side, accommodates the temperature sensing terminal, and A pair of terminal supports are configured to protrude from the inner surface of one side, extend along the height direction of the housing, and face each other across the terminal receiving groove in the width direction of the housing, so as to support the temperature sensing terminal.

11. The electronic contactor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The supporting component includes: Terminal through holes are formed inside the support member, and A circuit pattern extends between the temperature sensing component and the terminal through-hole; The temperature sensing terminal is inserted into the terminal through hole to be electrically connected to the circuit pattern.

12. The electronic contactor according to claim 11, characterized in that, The temperature sensing terminal includes: The terminal body, which is attached to the housing, extends in the height direction of the housing. The terminal head is continuous with one end of the terminal body in the height direction and extends in the length direction of the housing, supporting the support member, and The support member joint is continuous with the terminal head and extends in the height direction of the housing to be inserted into the terminal through hole.

13. The electronic contactor according to claim 12, characterized in that, The temperature sensing terminal includes: The terminal tail is continuous with the other end of the terminal body in the height direction and extends in the length direction of the housing, with at least a portion of the terminal tail exposed outside the housing.

14. The electronic contactor according to claim 1, characterized in that, The energized part includes: The power-conducting terminals, at least a portion of which are exposed on one side of the housing, are electrically connected to the outside.

15. The electronic contactor according to claim 14, characterized in that, The temperature sensing terminal includes: The terminal tail extends along the length of the housing, and at least a portion of the terminal tail is exposed on the side outside the housing.

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